We have just this month begun using RE. In our former software, we used SS#s as the ID# when available instead of the # assigned by the system because we need it and didn't have another place for it. We are wondering whether to continue with this practice, overriding the system assigned # with the social - or just use the #s assigned by the system. All our old records cannot be changed. Also, are there any legal issues with using socials when they appear in reports, etc.?

I wouldn't risk it. Even if there are no current rules prohibiting this, it's better to avoid the possibility. I would be concerned about the potential for privacy violations should printed reports not be shredded, someone distributes it outside of the organization, etc. Should it become known that you track by that number, you could lose donors due to concern about their identities being stolen (doesn't matter how small the potential, fear is strong in that area these days). If you have even one employee that thinks it's a bad idea, they may tell someone else, and so on. Additionally, there is the tiny possibility that the numbers will not be unique. This could happen over time, when a number gets reused, or due to a clerical error or donor error. There also will be times you can't get the ssn and that kills any consistency you would have had. If you happen to get a donation from a non-US resident, they might not have an SSN. In our organization, there are only certain individuals allowed to see the entire record. Using SS as Constit opens it up to EVERYONE. I'm sorry I didn't see your post a lot earlier. If I haven't convinced you this is a bad idea, feel free to contact me! [Email Removed]